Rum Auctioneer Inaugural Auction

The specialist Whisky Auctioneer event in May of this year saw some great bottles for sale…..I managed to write about a few of them here. They are now back with a dedicated Rum Auction site.

*Press Release*

World’s first online rum auction platform launches with a host of rum rarities!

RumAuctioneer.com is the first online auction platform dedicated to the buying and selling of rum.

Perth, Scotland – The launch of Rum Auctioneer will transform the secondary rum market, offering an exciting new avenue for rum collectors and drinkers to explore the spirit, gaining access to bottles that they might never find at retail. The monthly auctions will feature an unrivaled selection of rare, unusual and interesting rum of varying ages and styles, sourced from around the world.

The Inaugural Auction highlights will include a full cask of Port Mourant MPM 2010 Barrel #2 and an exceptionally rare and highly regarded bottle of Saint James, a true piece of rum heritage that was distilled in 1885.

A launch to celebrate the Inaugural Auction was held at the award winning King of Islington rum bar, Dundee, with a range of delicious rum cocktails served up by 2018 Global Monin Cup cocktail competition winner Dimi Savvaidis.

Launched by the team behind one of the world’s largest and most successful online whisky auctions, WhiskyAuctioneer.com, Rum Auctioneer will offer users an intuitive and user-friendly website that has been tried and tested over the past five years of selling whisky.

Whisky Auctioneer’s decision to launch the new site came in response to the increasing numbers of rum appearing in their regular auctions and a hugely successful stand alone rum auction in May 2019.

Iain McClune, Managing Director of Whisky Auctioneer and Rum Auctioneer, said: “The rum market is an exciting and dynamic place currently. Over the past 2 years we have seen the volume of rum consigned to our monthly whisky auctions increase by over 70% and the value of rum sold increase by over 80%.

A once underrated spirit, rum has now developed a devoted following who are searching out rarer and more unusual bottlings and premium offerings from our auctions. With our established reputation as specialist auctioneers and our in-depth knowledge of the drinks industry it was a natural move to launch a dedicated website to meet this demand. In fact, even before our first auction has gone live we have already seen over 1000 registrations on the new Rum Auctioneer website.”

Industry expert Ian Burrell will collaborate with Rum Auctioneer, appearing as a featured blog writer for the site and acting as a behind the scenes consultant.

Ian Burrell, Global Rum Ambassador and founder of UK Rumfest, said “It’s great to be involved with this new venture. A dedicated rum auction site is a welcome addition to the rum marketplace, giving fans the chance to explore and discover different producers, styles and ages and in the process hopefully growing their passion, knowledge and understanding of this amazing spirit.”

A previous stand out rum sold via Whisky Auctioneer is the incredible Wray & Nephew President’s Reserve. Only 12 of these bottles were produced in 1982 to celebrate the visit of President Reagan to Jamaica. Bottle number 4 was sold by Whisky Auctioneer in May 2019 achieving an auction record breaking hammer price of £31,500.

The Rum Auctioneer Inaugural Auction will go live on 30 August and will close on 9 September.

For more information on the auction or to register to participate please visit https://www.rumauctioneer.com/

*End*

I have to admit that I have already signed up for the site and have quite a few bottles on my ‘watch list’ along with having two bottles in the auction myself.

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2019. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

LONDON RUM WEEK LAUNCHES THIS OCTOBER

*Press Release*

From the makers of RumFest, London Rum Week is a week-long celebration of rum across bars all over the capital, ahead of RumFest 2018

London Rum Week
15th – 21st October

RumFest
Saturday 20th & 21st October 2018
London’s Earl’s Court
ILEC Conference Centre
rumfest.co.uk

RumFest tickets start from £44.55 and can be purchased here. 

Bigger and better than ever before, RumFest is launching London Rum Week to prolong the celebrations of one of the nations favourite tipples. With an abundance of events taking place from rum launches and Tiki Thursday to rum masterclasses, rum-lovers from across the capital will have endless opportunities to get involved.

RumFest, the world’s premier festival of rum, will also return to London this autumn to host an abundance of tastings, masterclasses and delicious food all under one roof. Taking place 20th-21st October, over 400 world-class rum brands, mixologists, master blenders and specialists will jet in from around the world, to celebrate their passion for all things rum, taking visitors on a rum pilgrimage to explore the exquisite and unique. For more information on Rum Week and RumFest, visit the website.

RumFest is the lead event in the newly launched London Rum Week this October. Kicking off on Monday 15th, rum-focused activities will take place across the capital for the first five days, including the launch of Hampden Rum from one of Jamaica’s oldest distilleries at Usain Bolt’s new London bar Tracks & Records, a Q&A with Bailey Pryor, the five-time Emmy Award-Winning Director and Producer, a showcase of rare rums & cigars at La Casa del Habano with award-winning rum maker Richard Seale and much more.

Also part of London Rum week is The 6th Golden Rum Barrel Awards & Dinner, to be held at The Holiday Inn Kensington Forum, on Sunday 21st October. This star-studded night will see awards given to best in the rum industry including the Best Rums of 2018, Best Rum Master, Best Rum Bar, Best Rum Brand Ambassador and Rum Influencer of the Year .

Running as the highlight event, RumFest – the worlds finest festival of rum, opens its doors on the Saturday 20th – Sunday 21st October. With over 400 rum brands united together under one roof, guests will be able to enjoy exclusive tastings and pairings, take part in a variety of masterclasses and learn the art of perfecting a rum cocktail from leading mixologists.

New for this year, Ian Burrell, renowned Global Rum Ambassador and RumFest Founder, will be leading a one-off tasting on the Saturday and Sunday, showcasing five rare and expensive rums with a combined retail value of £1500. Tickets for all masterclasses (except those stated) are included within the entry ticket, however, places are limited and must to be booked in advance.

Sponsoring the main stage this year is London’s newest tropical escape bar Laki Kane. Co-founded by award-winning mixologist Georgi Radev, the bar produces innovative cocktails and is the first bar in the world to make all syrups in-house without using refined sugars. Using the finest rums, sugar cane syrups and a hand-picked selection of rare and exotic ingredients, Laki Kane will be showcasing their mixology expertise.

Speaking about this year’s events, founder and Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell;
“RumFest is a fantastic chance to get the inside track on the next big thing in rum as well as try some hidden gems on the market. Last year proved once again that this is THE event for anyone in the business of rum, with the worlds best brands, master blenders, distilleries and aficionados from across the globe. 2018 promises to raise the bar again with a few more surprises!”

A variety of additional masterclass sessions will take place across the course of the weekend. All sessions will involve tutored rum and cocktail tasting by spirit experts.
Saturday Masterclasses:
– Angostura
– La Hechicera
– Velier Masterclasses with Luca Gargano
– Canadian Rums
– Appleton Rum
– Flor de Caña

Sunday Masterclasses:
– Real McCoy
– Foursquare class with Richard Seale
– Appleton Rum
– Velier Masterclasses

For rum connoisseurs, the RumFest Golden Tot Tokens will give you the opportunity to taste limited edition and premium rums, retailing from £80-250.

In addition, Saturday guests will be able to place their bids at the Rum Auction, with premium rums priced from £500 – £2000. There will also be a host of chef demos throughout the weekend from Shivi Ramoutar, The Modern Caribbean Chef & Hassan de Four.

RumFest tickets are now on sale from £44.55 per day, which includes tastings of over 400 rums, complimentary invites to all masterclasses and seminars (except those stated) and rum experience tasting glass. For full information on RumFest and to buy tickets, head to rumfest.co.uk.

A full itinerary for London Rum Week can be found on http://www.londonrumweek.com. Activities across the week include Hampden Rum launch at Usain Bolt’s new London bar, a showcase of rare rums and cigars at La Casa del Habano plus much more to be announced. For more information regarding London Rum Week or to get involved contact info@rumfest.co.uk.

*End*

Rum Week is back with a vengeance! Some amazing events going on. It’s a shame that we’re up in Manchester at times like this but that theres still plenty to look forward to! We hope that we see a few of you over the course of the weekend.

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2018. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Rumfests 10th Anniversary is a Sell Out Success

*Press Release*

SELL OUT SUCCESS FOR RUMFEST 10

THOUSANDS OF RUM LOVERS JOIN THE UK’S LEADING RUM FESTIVAL FOR TASTINGS, MASTERCLASSES & 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd October 2016 
London’s ILEC, Earl’s Court
rumfest.co.uk

Levi Roots with RumFest founder Ian Burrell at RumFest 2016

Thousands descended on London’s ILEC over the weekend for a very special edition of RumFest. Celebrating a decade of championing rum culture in the UK, organisers pulled out all the stops to mark the milestone with hundreds of rums from around the world and special guests including Levi Roots and Beach Bum Berry. Tastings, masterclasses and seminars gave an incredible insight into the world of rum for both newcomers and aficionados across the weekend, with the spirit of the culture brought to life with live music and RumFest’s renowned Carnival Hour. 2016 also saw the return of The Rum Auction raising over £4,000 for charity. Full details of the event can be found via The RumFest website.

Over 400 rums were on offer at this year’s RumFest, presented by distillers and blenders from all corners of the globe and all available to sip, savour, buy and take home. Well-known brands like Bacardi, St Nicholas Abbey, Diplomatico and Mount Gay showcased some of their lesser known gems while ticket-holders were given the chance to discover and sample newcomers like Cornwall’s own Dead Man’s Fingers and India’s Wild Tiger. Golden Tot tokens made a welcome return to give the more discerning drinker access to ultra-premium and rare rums, some of which retail for over £200 a bottle.

Those looking to heighten their knowledge of one of the most exciting spirits in the world, took part in intimate seminars and masterclasses over the weekend. Diplamatico presented some its newest releases and Mount Gay‘s master blender Allen Smith gave an exclusive UK first tasting of its limited edition pure pot still and column distillate rums. Sam Smallman of Rococo chocolates delved into Rum and Chocolate pairings in his third year at the festival, while newcomers were taught about rum tasting notes and vocabulary by Kim Lahiri to discover the key aromas in their favourite tipple.

On the main stage Saturday, RumFest founder Ian Burrell was on hand to take guests and bidders through rums on offer a the Rum Auction and a grand total of £4,000 was raised and all to donate to Max’s Foundation, a charity dedicated to helping detection of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and other heart conditions in pre-adolescent children. Celebrity chef Hasan De Four made a RumFest return and cooked up a storm to demonstrate how to get rum in the kitchen, while Jeff ‘Beachbum’ Berry told the story of the founding father of Tiki, Don the beachcomber. Sunday’s main stage hosted a takeover of the famous Levi Roots as he showcased a tasting of his new restaurant Levi’s Caribbean Smokehouse. The revered master blender Joy Spence was interviewed by Ian Burrell with a tasting of Appleton Estate rums and bartenders competed for a trip to Barbados in the fierce Doorly’s Rum Competition.

Kicking off the rum-fuelled weekend on the Friday, the trade-only Boutique RumFest returned for a seventh year providing a platform for the industry’s newcomers and independent brands. Rum wholesalers, distributors, buyers, bar professionals and importers congregated from as far afield as Panama and Japan, presenting the perfect opportunity to sample the next big thing.

Ian Burrell, Global Rum Ambassador and RumFest founder says, “We could never have predicted how successful RumFest would become when we started out all those years ago and what a ride its been. It’s great to see so many old faces back to join us in celebrating rum culture but also the new comers who are getting to know the spirit properly for the very first time. A huge thanks to the brands, blenders, ambassadors, speakers and rum lovers who came over the weekend, here’s to the next 10 years!”

*End*

We were fortunate enough to attend and personally think that it was one of the best years in terms of seminars and sheer variety of rums available. Something to suit everyone and with the addition this year of a Velier stand……it was pretty much heaven spread over a weekend. Our own write-up of the events from Friday morning until Sunday evening will follow once we’ve come down from the high of the weekend.

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2016. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

RumFest Announces 10th Anniversary Event

*Press Release*

RUMFEST CELEBRATES NATIONAL RUM DAY & ANNOUNCES 10TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT

TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR THE UK’S LARGEST CELEBRATION OF RUM CULTURE

Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd October 2016 
London’s ILEC, Earl’s Court
rumfest.co.uk

With the arrival of National Rum Day today, RumFest announces its return to the capital for the nation’s biggest celebration of rum and rum culture. Pulling out all the stops for an impressive 10th anniversary year, the event will host a myriad of rum-related offerings with the spirit’s leading brands and aficionados all jam-packed into two days at London’s ILEC, 22nd-23rd October. Over 400 rums will be available for ticket-holders to sip, savour, try and buy to take home with RumFest’s Golden Tot tokens making a welcome return to give the more discerning drinker access to ultra-premium and rare rums, that would otherwise cost over £200 a bottle. The comprehensive programme will see rum tastings, in-depth seminars, The Rum Auction sponsored by Christie’s, incredible food and a party atmosphere to match, not to mention a new Sunday rum roast and special guests Levi Roots and Beach Bum Berry joining in on the celebrations. Tickets are now on sale from £39.50, including a VIP package priced from £69.50 which includes fast track entry, goodie bag and a three course Caribbean lunch. More information on tickets and the event can be found on the website via rumfest.co.uk.

Launched by Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell, RumFest has become the main event of the rum calendar and the event’s 10th outing is set to be its strongest yet as it invites the nation to delve into the world of rum.

Over 400 rums from around the world will be on offer, with a myriad of exhibitors including Diplomatico, Havana Club, Don Q, Bacardi, Mount Gay, Pussers, St. Nicholas Abbey, Richland Rum and many more.

Seminars and workshops take place across the two days where brands, ambassadors and leading industry figures give an in-depth insight into the world of rum including rum and food pairings and the making of rums. Top blenders, mixologists and distillers will be on hand to teach ticket-holders the art of cocktail making as well as more ways to enjoy their favourite tipple. Highlights include a rare rum seminar with Ian Burrell himself, an Aroma Academy, a sit down with award-winning master distiller Richard Seale, chocolate and rum pairing plus an exciting look into the world of rum with author Dave Broom. Head to the RumFest website to book seminars in advance from September.

This year RumFest are going big on Sunday. Reggae Reggae Sauce’s Levi Roots will be taking over the main stage and sharing some of his incredible cooking secrets and bringing his newly open Caribbean Smokehouse restaurant to RumFest. Sunday’s RumFest will also team up with Sandals Resorts to offer the chance for two lucky ticket-holders to win an incredible seven-day holiday to a Sandals Resort in the Caribbean to get even closer to rum’s roots. Rum & Roast will be introduced for Sunday ticket-holders, cooking up a Caribbean twist on the Sunday classic and VIPs will be treated to a roast option for their three course meal.

The Rum Auction sponsored by Christie’s returns to auction off yet more precious and rare rums for charity to the highest bidder while the action heats up with live stage demos showcasing rum pairings, cigar & rum pairing, cooking demos, cocktail competitions. On Saturday’s RumFest “the Indiana Jones of Tiki drinks” Beach Bum Berry will delve into the art of Tiki cocktail making. Rounding off each day, rum-lovers will be invited to party with RumFest for its famous carnival hour, celebrating the spirit of rum with live bands and dancers.

RumFest Founder and Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell is the leading name in rum. Dedicating his life to promoting rum and rum culture around the world, over the years Burrell has been recognised with a number of industry awards as well as regularly appearing as a rum expert at events and on television shows like Sunday Brunch, the Alan Titchmarsh Show and more.

Speaking about the 10th year, Ian Burrell says, “When we launched 10 years ago we could never have imagined how successful RumFest would become. For us rum has always been a way of life and we’re thrilled to still be spreading the word and celebrating the spirit a decade on. We’ve got something for everyone this year with even more rums, tastings and talks as we hope to make RumFest 2016 one to remember for rum-lovers up and down the country.”

RumFest takes place in London at the ILEC, 22nd to 23^rd October 2016. Standard day tickets are now on sale from £39.50, which includes access to all areas of the event and tastings from all exhibitors. VIP tickets are on sale from £69.50 and allow for early access of one hour ahead of standard ticket buyers along with a three course Caribbean lunch. Golden Tot Tokens are £5 each and allow for additional access to the more premium rums on offer. One token can be exchanged for rum retailing £80 – £100 and more expensive rums will be available for additional tokens. For full information on RumFest and to buy tickets head to rumfest.co.uk.

*End*

We’ll be there again and (not wanting to wish the next few months away) can’t wait, with highlights being the chance to see Jeff Berry in action! Again it looks like there is a whole host of fun planned! Roll on October.

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2016. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

A Rum Roaring Success

*Press Release*

Tastings, parties, masterclasses, dinners, pairings and more brought rum lovers to the capital for the first ever Rum Experience Week culminating in the UK’s biggest annual celebration of the spirit at RumFest 2015

#rumweek

Monday 12th – Sunday 18th October 2015 
London

rumexperienceweek.com
rumfest.co.uk

Last week rum took over London with a week of curated events in the first ever Rum Experience Week, culminating in the ninth annual RumFest. Rum Experience Week raised awareness of the spirit like never before teaming up with leading bars, chefs, distillers, brands and rum lovers to showcase new ways to enjoy one of the country’s favourite tipples. Highlights of the week included a first-taste of Lamb’s Single Cask at Voltaire, an exclusive Rum Masters Dinner, an interactive live tasting in the Shard with Appleton Rum which trended on Twitter in the UK, a Thames Tiki rum cruise, rum pairings with cigars and chocolate, the return of Boutique RumFest and the Rum Experience University and much more. At the weekend thousands flocked to London’s ILEC for RumFest and a sell out Saturday, where rum makers from all over the world showcased their blends in tastings, masterclasses, seminars, cocktails and more. Full details of all events and next year’s dates to be announced soon and can be found via The RumFest and Rum Experience Week websites.

Rum Experience Week and RumFest offered the most comprehensive rum programme the UK has ever seen. Headed up by Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell, the seven-day series welcomed both rum newcomers and the discerning drinker to embrace the vibrant culture of rum and change perceptions by exploring new ways to enjoy the spirit.

The week began at one of Alfred Lamb’s old rum stores under the Thames at Voltaire, where Lamb’s Navy Rum hosted an exclusive tasting of the first limited edition batch of Lamb’s Single Cask, followed by the official launch party for Rum Experience Week.  Some of the world’s most renowned ambassadors including Richard Seale from Foursquare and Luca Gargano from Velier Rums presented a special tasting at Bourne & Hollingsworth as well as raising a number of pressing issues affecting the rum industry including the categorisation of the spirit. Appleton Estate Rum welcomed over 400 lucky rum enthusiasts the chance to take part in the ultimate ‘alternative night in’, as they presented #AppletonLive the ‘Taste of Jamaica’ welcoming both fans at home and at a very special event at The Shard the ultimate live interactive Twitter tasting resulting in it trending on Twitter in the UK. Rum lovers set sail aboard the Tiki Boat on Thursday for Tiki On The Thames with plenty of Tiki vibes, Tiki tunes and Tiki cocktails before a special after party at the famous Mahiki Club in Mayfair.

Those looking for more of an official education in rum took part in the Rum Experience University on Friday, with an in-depth course that offered a recognised diploma. Industry figures also congregated for RumFest’s sister trade show Boutique RumFest that allows buyers, distributors, distillers, press and industry figures from all over the globe to network and sample new rums before anyone else.

Rum Experience Week ended with a bang as RumFest took over London’s ILEC for the country’s biggest celebration of rum. Over 400 of the rarest and most diverse rums from across the globe were on offer for ticket holders to sip, savour and buy along with some more premium rums available to try as part of the Golden Tot offering. Leading and emerging rum brands took part in intimate seminars, masterclasses and more while the main stage presented cooking demonstrations and the return of the Rum Auction, which raised over £5000 for charity. (Note: We won the Foursquare Mahiki bottle in the auction)

Ian Burrell, Global Rum Ambassador and Rum Experience Week Founder comments, “The turnout and reaction for Rum Experience Week and RumFest has been phenomenal. It’s such a joy to see so many people as interested and excited by rum and it’s a testament to the versatility and variety of the spirit. A big thanks goes out to all of the brands, ambassadors, blenders, mixologists and rum lovers who travelled from all over the world to be a part of the many rum events in the capital and we hope to see you all again next year!”

RumFest Founder and Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell is the leading name in rum. Dedicating his life to promoting rum and rum culture around the world, over the years Burrell has been recognised with a number of industry awards as well as regularly appearing as a rum expert at events and on television shows like Sunday Brunch, the Alan Titchmarsh Show and more.

Exhibitor Quotes

“The best of the 6 RumFests we have attended. Saturday was a great day, the visitors to our stand were really interested to learn more about rum and The Diplomatico range, they seemed to really like the venue and it’s location.” Diplomatico

“The best thing we’ve done for 2015.” Rum Bar

“Delighted to be a part of RumFest again this year. Great turnout, lots of fun and we are already discussing how we can embrace this event further next year.” Marussia

“It was a great experience to show the quality of the rums under the D.O.C. Ron de Venezuela in this prestigious event. A unique opportunity to meet UK professionals and rum lovers. Congratulations to all RumFest’s team!” D.O.C. Ron de Venezuela

“Showcasing Matugga Rum – a new entrant to the U.K. drinks market, at the Boutique RumFest and at The UK RumFest yielded an abundance of positive results. Our participation in the show boosted awareness of our brand amongst rum enthusiasts, and facilitated networking with the international drinks trade. Impressive exposure, great experience, highly recommended – we’re looking forward to RumFest 2016.” Paul and Jacine Rutasikwa, Matugga Beverages

“Once again, the Duppies enjoyed spreading the mischief at this year’s RumFest. A year on from our launch, it was great to be back amongst the rum family, saying hello to people we met last year and introducing The Duppy Share to newcomers. It’s exciting to see the interest in rum growing and growing, and to be a part of the rum revolution.” Duppy Share

“For Botran the show was fantastic exposure. RumFest has played a huge part in the re-introduction of Botran to the UK and the reception we had was incredibly positive. It was a great opportunity to educate people on Botran and our plans for the UK market.” Botran

“Being distributed by VDS UK for 3 months mostly in London’s bars, the rum fest was an excellent opportunity to meet rum connoisseurs and get their feedbacks. See you next year!” HeeJoy

“We enjoyed RumFest 2015. A relaxing and entertaining venue to interact with the friends, the trade, customers, and receive their feedback.” Nicholas Abbey Rum

“It was an amazing experience thanks to everyone involved. I was able to listen to the valuable feedback from a lot of customers who came by our stand. We were also able to secure a distributor in the UK so we hope more and more people will be able to enjoy NINE LEAVES rum!  A huge thank you to the festival organizers, and everyone who attended the event. I will continue to keep ‘sincerely making rum’. That’s a promise.” Nine Leaves

“RumFest was fantastic for us this year due to our rebrand of Britain’s favourite spiced rum, Old J. We also showcased our new flavours Cherry and Gold which went down a storm with the public. Whisky Exchange told us it was the most popular this year which was also huge for us as a brand. Can’t wait for next year!!” Old J Spiced Rum

“RumFest is definitely our favourite event to do. We look forward to it every year, it’s such a fun atmosphere and everyone involved is so helpful!! Roti Company

“What an excellent show with truly great feedback from the audience regarding Ron Centenario. We hope to finally have our rum available in the UK market in the near future.” Ron Centenario

“As newcomers to the British market the RumFest experience was a delightful moment to meet with customers and get some valuable insights. We enjoyed the fair very much and hope that also brought some good vibes and the most excellent rum.” Ron Barcelo

“Being part of Rum Experience Week has been a reminder of just how much the spirit is increasing in popularity. There’s a real thirst for premium liquid, as proven by the positive response to Lamb’s new Single Cask rum. We had some fantastic feedback on the full Lamb’s range at RumFest and thanks to Ian Burrell, The Global Rum Ambassador, people were again entertained and educated about Lamb’s Rum, a brand of true British Character.” Lamb’s Navy Rum

“This year was the 5th consecutive year Don Q has participated in the UK Rum Experience. Every year we find that the event helps elevate the category within the London market by educating and exposing the consumer and rum enthusiasts alike to the production process, upcoming trends, and of course great rums!” Don Q

“Westerhall Rums loved being part of this years RumFest it was fantastic to meet so many rum enthusiasts! Everyone seemed thoroughly interested in learning more about rum, and it was great to speak with so many over a Westerhall Jack Iron Cocktail. We are very much looking forward to next year. Cheers!”  Westerhall Rum

“RumFest 2016 has been one of the best shows for Pusser’s Rum. There was a great turnout and people really wanted to learn about our brand. We met some amazing individuals over the course of the weekend, and all because of rum!” Pussers Rum

Amathus has a long history with RumFest, and this year we fully supported the focus on Rhum Agricole. with fantastic activity from our AOC Martinique brands, Rhum Clement and Rhum JM.” Amathus Drinks

*End*

We attended a few events along with both days of Rumfest itself and our summation will appear on these pages in the very near future accompanied by a huge quantity of images. Given the quality on display this year alongside the chosen guest speakers / masterclasses, there was a real credibility to the event and it was on the whole a really positive weekend. We’re still recovering so it must have been good! We had our own stand out moments and will reveal all when the article is published!

 © Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2015. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Rum Experience Week is One Week Away!

*Press Release*

FIRST EVER RUM EXPERIENCE WEEK
IS LESS THAN ONE WEEK AWAY

Rum lovers are invited to explore new ways to enjoy rum in a week-long series of tastings, masterclasses, parties, music & fine dining

#rumweek

Monday 12th – Sunday 18th October 2015 
London
rumexperienceweek.com

The Rum Experience is teaming up with leading bars, chefs, distillers, brands and rum lovers to curate a week-long series of events that will take over the capital next week. The week will introduce some of the world’s most renowned ambassadors including David Morrison from Appleton Rum, Richard Seale from Foursquare, Luca Gargano from Velier Rums and Luis Figueroa from Pampero Rum. Events will be hosted by a different brand or partner and will show attendees new ways to experience rum, including rum pairings with cigars and chocolate, rum infused cooking classes and exclusive menus, a Thames Tiki rum cruise and interactive tastings. The week culminates in the biggest annual rum event on the calendar as RumFest returns to the ILEC, 17th – 18th October. Tickets and more information can be found on the website – rumexperienceweek.com. #rumweek

The first ever Rum Experience Week lands in London from 12th – 18th October 2015. Headed up by Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell, the seven-day series aims to raise awareness of the spirit like never before and welcomes both rum newcomers and the discerning drinker to embrace the vibrant culture of rum and explore new ways to enjoy a tipple.

The rum-fuelled action kicks off on the Monday with Lamb’s Navy Rum, where those lucky enough to get a ticket can sample the first limited edition batch of Lamb’s Single Cask in one of Alfred Lamb’s old stores under the Thames at Voltaire followed by the official launch party for Rum Experience Week.  Joined by the biggest experts from the world of Rum, Bourne & Hollingsworth are delighted to invite guests to The Rum Masters Tasting & Dinner on Tuesday evening, sampling four unique and bespoke rums, specially created by master distillers for the first ever Rum Experience Week. The evening’s engaging hosts consist of some of the world’s most renowned ambassadors including David Morrison from Appleton Rum, Richard Seale from Foursquare, Luca Gargano from Velier Rums and Luis Figueroa from Pampero Rum.

Rum tasting will be taken to new heights on the Tuesday as Appleton Estate Rum is offering over 400 lucky rum enthusiasts the chance to yet again take part in the ultimate ‘alternative night in’, as they present #AppletonLive the ‘Taste of Jamaica’ Appleton Estate Rum’s Twitter Tasting. Global Rum Ambassador, Ian Burrell and Appleton Estate’s senior blender, David Morrison will host the live Twitter tasting, in which rum fans can follow online, from their very own homes, to unlock the true tastes and smells of Jamaican rum, with each tweet. Thursday welcomes rum lovers to jump aboard the Tiki Boat for Tiki On The Thames. Expect an afternoon of Tiki vibes, Tiki tunes, complementary Tiki cocktails and all things Tiki before voyagers disembark for a special after party at the famous Mahiki Club in Mayfair.

Friday sees the return of the Rum Experience University to offer rum lovers with even more of an education in rum and a recognised diploma, while industry figures gather for the annual rum trade event Boutique RumFest to sample and meet new and emerging rum brands to the UK market. Rounding off the week is the ninth annual RumFest. The huge two-day rum celebration is on course for its best year yet featuring tastings of over 400 rums, cocktail making competitions, seminars, workshops, a Christie’s rum auction, incredible food and the party atmosphere of Carnival Hour.

Gerry’s Wine & Spirits will be the official Rum Shop for the Rum Experience Week featuring a RumFest Takeover from Monday 12th – Wednesday 14th October where customers will be able to sample a selection of the exclusive rums that will be hitting RumFest and Boutique RumFest later that week, as well as speak to representatives from the various brands. With daily themes visitors will also be honoured with 10% off all rum purchases during Rum Experience Week to anyone who produces a valid RumFest ticket.

The Rum Experience Week will also celebrate the classic cocktails by giving it a Rum twist, each day bars will celebrate a different Cocktail of the Day. Monday is all about the Mojito, Tuesday the sweet Daiquiri, Wednesday plays with Mai Tai, Thursday is the exotic Pina Colada and finally Friday is Planter’s Punch day. Rum fans visiting the Rum Week bars, which includes Artesian Mahiki, Trailer Happiness, Merchant House, Rum & Sugar, Portside Parlour and London Cocktail Club will also be in with a chance of winning bottles of rum by posting a photo of themselves drinking the cocktail of the day across social media tagging #rumweek. Merchant House are also offering 50% of ALL rums across the week as hosting their weekly rum masterclass for only £20 rather than £65!

Ian Burrell, Global Rum Ambassador and Rum Experience Week Founder comments, “We are less that a week away till the first ever Rum Experience Week hits London and the excitement is building. We’ve paired up with some of the most pioneering and exciting partners and will be seeing events pop up all over the capital for the very special week of tastings, seminars, dinners, master classes, live twitter tasting and parties. Rum is an incredibly versatile spirit and there will be no better way to celebrate this than at the first ever Rum Experience Week. See you there!”

RumFest Founder and Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell is the leading name in rum. Dedicating his life to promoting rum and rum culture around the world, over the years Burrell has been recognised with a number of industry awards as well as regularly appearing as a rum expert at events and on television shows like Sunday Brunch, the Alan Titchmarsh Show and more.

RUM EXPERIENCE WEEK PROGRAMME

Monday 13th October
Caribbean Hands on Cookery Class
Tickets available September | Website www.divertimenti.co.uk/cookery-school | Divertimenti Cookery School, South Kensington / Knightsbridge, 227-229 Brompton Road,  London, SW3 2EP

RumFest Takeover @ Gerry’s Wine & Spirits
1PM – 6PM | 74 Old Compton St, London W1D 4UW

Cigar & Rum Pairing
Sautters Knightsbridge: 106 Mount St, London, Mayfair W1K 2TW

Alfred Lamb’s Secret Store
VIP sampling session & Rum Experience Week Launch Party | Voltaire | From 7PM RSVPs iga@wearefullfat.com

Rum Appreciation Masterclass with Peter Holland and Matugga Rum
Lounge at Library Private Members Club.

Tuesday 14th October 
Cigar & Rum Pairing
1A St James’s: London SW1A 1EF

The Rum Masters Tasting & Dinner
Bourne & Hollingsworth | Rathbone Pl, London W1T 1JF | For tickets click here

Wednesday 14th October
RumFest Takeover @ Gerry’s Wine & Spirits
1PM – 6PM | 74 Old Compton St, London W1D 4UW

Cigar & Rum Pairing
La Casa Del Habano: 76 High St, Teddington TW11 8JD

Rum & Sugar Rum – Rum Cocktail Masterclass
Suitable for beginners | 6.30PM – 8PM | Rum & Sugar, Docklands

Thursday 15th October
Cigar & Rum Pairings
James J Fox: 19 St James’s St, London SW1A 1ES

Tiki on the Thames
Festival Pier departure 1.45PM – 6PM (stop off at 4PM) | £22 via Eventbrite

Rum & Sugar Live Music Gig
8PM – 11.30PM

Friday 16th October
The Rum Experience University
ILEC Conference Centre | Tickets announced soon

Boutique RumFest
ILEC Conference Centre | Trade only | Registration essential here

Rum & Rococo Chocolate Pairing
Two sittings: 5pm & 7:30pm | 3 Moxon Street, W1U 4EW | Tickets £25 & booked by contacting Sam 07469 853 957 / events@rococochocolates.com

Rum & Sugar Live Music Gig
8PM – 11.30PM

Saturday 17th October
RumFest 2015: the world’s premier rum festival
Tickets £49.95 / £75 (VIP) | rumfest.co.uk/purchase-tickets

Sunday 19th October
RumFest 2015: the world’s premier rum festival
Tickets £49.95 / £75 (VIP) | rumfest.co.uk/purchase-tickets

*End*

This is all lining up to be an epic week. So many things going on, if you have even an outside chance of making it along to any of them then you look to be heading towards a great time with hopefully a little bit of rum education thrown in!

We’ll be down from mid-afternoon Thursday to join in the fun!

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2015. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Rum Experience Week

*Press Release*

FIRST EVER RUM EXPERIENCE WEEK TO TAKE OVER LONDON

Rum lovers invited to explore new ways with rum in a week-long series of tastings, masterclasses, parties, music & fine dining

#rumweek

Monday 12th – Sunday 18th October 2015 
London
rumexperienceweek.com

The Rum Experience is teaming up with leading bars, chefs, distillers, brands and rum lovers to curate a week-long series of events that will take over the capital in October. Taking place at various prestigious venues across the city including The Shard, Christies Auction House, The Thames, Mahiki Club, Voltaire and more, each event will be hosted by a different brand or partner and will show attendees new ways to experience rum, including rum pairings with cigars and chocolate, rum infused cooking classes and exclusive menus, a Thames Tiki rum cruise and interactive tastings. The week culminates in the biggest annual rum event on the calendar as RumFest returns to the ILEC, 17th – 18th October. Tickets to select events are available now and more events will be announced soon. Tickets and more information can be found on the website – rumexperienceweek.com.

The first ever Rum Experience Week lands in London from 12th – 18th October 2015. Headed up by Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell, the seven-day series aims to raise awareness of the spirit like never before and welcomes both rum newcomers and the discerning drinker to embrace the vibrant culture of rum and explore new ways to enjoy a tipple.

The rum-fuelled action kicks off on the Monday with Lamb’s Navy Rum, where those lucky enough to get a ticket can sample the first limited edition batch of Lamb’s single cask in one of ‘Alfred Lamb’s old stores’ under the Thames at Voltaire followed by the official launch party for Rum Experience Week. On Tuesday Christies Auction House host a very special Rum Masters Dinner. Following the huge success of the Christies rum auction at RumFest last year, the auction house will welcome 40 lucky rum aficionados to a private dinner with rum distillers from around the world surrounded by artwork worth millions. Rum tasting will be taken to new heights on the Wednesday as Appleton Estate Rum welcomes rum fans to an exciting tasting with more news to be announced very soon. Hosted by Ian Burrell and Dave Morrison, Appleton’s senior blender, who will be flying in especially from Jamaica, this is one not to be missed. Thursday welcomes rum lovers to jump aboard the Tiki Boat for Tiki On The Thames. Expect an afternoon of Tiki vibes, Tiki tunes, Tiki cocktails and all things Tiki before voyagers disembark for a special after party at the famous Mahiki Club in Mayfair.

Friday sees the return of the Rum Experience University to offer rum lovers with even more of an education in rum and a recognised diploma, while industry figures gather for the annual rum trade event Boutique RumFest to sample and meet new and emerging rum brands to the UK market. Rounding off the week is the ninth annual RumFest. The huge two-day rum celebration is on course for its best year yet featuring tastings of over 400 rums, cocktail making competitions, seminars, workshops, a Christie’s rum auction, incredible food and the party atmosphere of Carnival Hour.

Gerry’s Wine & Spirits will be the official Rum Shop for the Rum Experience Week featuring a RumFest Takeover from Monday 12th – Wednesday 14th October where customers will be able to sample a selection of the exclusive rums that will be hitting RumFest and Boutique RumFest later that week, as well as speak to representatives from the various brands. With daily themes yet to be revealed, visitors will also be honoured with 10% off all rum purchases during Rum Experience Week to anyone who produces a valid RumFest ticket.

Other highlights during Rum Experience Week include a rum supper club with critically acclaimed Trinidadian chef Shivi Ramoutar, cited by The Guardian as a ‘Caribbean food supremo’, hands on rum cooking masterclasses with Divertimenti Cookery School, rum pairing sessions with chocolates as well as live music. Each day of Rum Experience Week will see rotating Cigar and Rum Pairing events in various venues across the city. Further events to be announced soon.

Ian Burrell, Global Rum Ambassador and Rum Experience Week Founder comments, “Rum is an incredibly versatile spirit, whether mixed with a cocktail, paired with chocolates or marshmallows, cooking with rum, paired with cigars or simply tasted in neat form. This versatility is something we aim to celebrate during the first ever Rum Experience Week allowing both old and new rum drinkers to experience rums in new and surprising ways with unique tastings, pairings and more. We have paired up with some incredible partners and have even more to announce soon, this will be a week of rum never to be forgotten!”

RumFest Founder and Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell is the leading name in rum. Dedicating his life to promoting rum and rum culture around the world, over the years Burrell has been recognised with a number of industry awards as well as regularly appearing as a rum expert at events and on television shows like Sunday Brunch, the Alan Titchmarsh Show and more.

RUM EXPERIENCE WEEK PROGRAMME

Monday 13th October
Caribbean Hands on Cookery Class
Tickets available September | Website www.divertimenti.co.uk/cookery-school | Divertimenti Cookery School, South Kensington / Knightsbridge, 227-229 Brompton Road,  London, SW3 2EP

RumFest Takeover @ Gerry’s Wine & Spirits
1PM – 6PM | 74 Old Compton St, London W1D 4UW

Cigar & Rum Pairing
Sautters Knightsbridge: 106 Mount St, London, Mayfair W1K 2TW

Alfred Lamb’s Secret Store
VIP sampling session & Rum Experience Week Launch Party | Voltaire | 7PM – 11.30PM

Tuesday 14th October 
Cigar & Rum Pairing
1A St James’s: London SW1A 1EF

RumFest Takeover @ Gerry’s Wine & Spirits
1PM – 6PM | 74 Old Compton St, London W1D 4UW

Supper Club with Shivi Ramoutar
Tickets and venue TBA

Christies Rum Masters Dinner
Christie’s Rum Auction House | 8 King St, St. James, London SW1Y 6QT | Tickets released Sept.

Wednesday 14th October
RumFest Takeover @ Gerry’s Wine & Spirits
1PM – 6PM | 74 Old Compton St, London W1D 4UW

Cigar & Rum Pairing
La Casa Del Habano: 76 High St, Teddington TW11 8JD

Rum & Sugar Rum – Rum Cocktail Masterclass
Suitable for beginners | 6.30PM – 8PM | Rum & Sugar, Docklands

Thursday 15th October
Cigar & Rum Pairings
James J Fox: 19 St James’s St, London SW1A 1ES

Tiki on the Thames
Festival Pier departure 2PM – 6PM (stop off at 4PM) | £22 via Eventbrite

Rum & Sugar Live Music Gig
8PM – 11.30PM

Friday 16th October
The Rum Experience University
ILEC Conference Centre | Tickets announced soon

Boutique RumFest
ILEC Conference Centre | Trade only | Registration essential here

Rum & Rococo Chocolate Pairing
Two sittings: 5pm & 7:30pm | 3 Moxon Street, W1U 4EW | Tickets £25 & booked by contacting Sam 07469 853 957 / events@rococochocolates.com

Rum & Sugar Live Music Gig
8PM – 11.30PM

Saturday 17th October
RumFest 2015: the world’s premier rum festival
Tickets £49.95 / £75 (VIP) | rumfest.co.uk/purchase-tickets

Sunday 19th October
RumFest 2015: the world’s premier rum festival
Tickets £49.95 / £75 (VIP) | rumfest.co.uk/purchase-tickets

*End*

We are looking to get down on Thursday afternoon so will be hoping to get ourselves to the Rum University, Boutique RumFest and RumFest itself as a minimum! If you get the chance to attend any of the events then we’d love to hear about your experiences! Looks like its going to be a great week with awareness of Rum at an all time high and in the forefront of everyone’s minds!

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2015. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Rum Lovers Assemble!

*Press Release*

CALLING ALL RUM LOVERS!

TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR RUMFEST
THE UK’S BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF RUM

Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October 2015 
London’s ILEC, Earl’s Court
rumfest.co.uk

RumFest is set to return to the capital this year, with its most comprehensive offering to date. Rum aficionados and newcomers are invited to immerse themselves in one of the world’s best-loved spirits with masterclasses, seminars, cocktail making and quality tastings. Over 400 of the rarest and most diverse rums in the market will be showcased at the event, which has become the one-stop resource for rum lovers up and down the country for the past nine years. The Golden Tot returns in 2015 providing access to the ultra-premium rum offerings and new private and intimate tastings will give discerning drinkers the chance to discover the rarest rums from around the world. The jam-packed programme will also feature cocktail making competitions, a Christie’s rum auction, incredible food and the party atmosphere of Carnival Hour. Tickets are now on sale from £49.95, including a new VIP package priced at £75 that allows for exclusive early entry, a two course Caribbean lunch and goody bag. Tickets and more information are available now from the RumFest website.

The ninth annual RumFest is already on course for its best year yet, taking rum lovers on a voyage of discovery through the glorious world of rum. Launched by Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell, the The Rum Experience’s RumFest has become one of the biggest events on the rum calendar and caters for everyone who enjoys a tipple, from novices to fully fledged rum connoisseurs. 2015 will see RumFest soar to new heights thanks to a refined, rum-fuelled programme set to both educate and entertain. Whether a keen rum enthusiast, all-round spirit lover or new to the category, RumFest is the one-stop shop for all to embrace rum as a lifestyle choice.

A day ticket to RumFest gives attendees unrivaled access to try and buy over 400 different blends from around the world. Following the success of last year the Golden Tot tokens return. Available on the day for just £5, the Golden Tots open the doors to rum’s elite and allows the more serious rum enthusiast to try rums that usually retail for over £200 a bottle.

Seminars and workshops take place across the two days where brands, ambassadors and leading industry figures give an in-depth insight into the world of rum including rum and food pairing and the making of rums. Top blenders, mixologists and distillers will also be on hand to teach ticket holders the art of cocktail making as well as more ways to enjoy their favourite rums. In a new move for 2015 RumFest’s trade sister show Boutique RumFest will make an appearance across the two days, giving the rum super fan unprecedented access to selected rums with private tastings that have previously been reserved only for those who work in the industry.

Other highlights for 2015 include the return of RumFest’s Auction in partnership with Christie’s auction house. A must see for this year, RumFest is hoping to smash last year’s grand total where over 20 precious and rare rum were sold off for charity. The RumFest’s famous food offering will deliver mouth-watering cuisine from exotic rum making locations and temperatures are set to rise with live stage demos showcasing rum pairings, cooking demos, cocktail competitions and more. Carnival Hour rounds off the RumFest experience each day in the ultimate party finale, featuring live bands and dancers that embrace the fun and social spirit of rum.

RumFest Founder and Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell is the leading name in rum. Dedicating his life to promoting rum and rum culture around the world, over the years Burrell has been recognised with a number of industry awards as well as regularly appearing as a rum expert at events and on television shows like Sunday Brunch, the Alan Titchmarsh Show and more.

Speaking about the return of RumFest Burrell says, “We’ve refined RumFest this year into something very special. We’ll be taking rum lovers on the UK’s biggest celebration of rum, showing them the fun side of the culture, while at the same time giving an insight into the spirit so they can take home what they’ve learnt, armed with a better understanding of the spirit.”

The RumFest takes place in London at the ILEC, 17th to 18th October 2015. Standard day tickets are now on sale at £49.95, which includes access to all areas of the event and tastings from all exhibitors. VIP tickets are on sale from £75 and allow for early access of one hour ahead of standard ticket buyers along with a two course Caribbean lunch and RumFest goodie bag. Golden Tot Tokens are £5 each and allow for additional access to the more premium rums on offer. One token can be exchanged for rum retailing £80 – £100 and more expensive rums will be available for additional tokens. Tickets to the new private rum tastings will be announced soon. For full information on RumFest and to buy tickets head to rumfest.co.uk.

*End*

This years RumFest already sounds like its set to be quite a spectacle……we can’t wait! Keep checking these pages for further updates!

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2015. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

RumFest and Boutique RumFest Return!

*Press Release*

BOUTIQUE RUMFEST WELCOMES RON TIBURON, LE DOM TOM, NINE LEAVES, PANAMONTE, PANAMA RED, JUAN SANTOS & RON ESCLAVO TO SIXTH ANNUAL EVENT

FOUNDER & GLOBAL RUM AMBASSADOR IAN BURRELL ALSO UNVEILS 
THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE RUMFEST EVER

Boutique RumFest – Friday 16th October, 2015, 3PM-9PM
RumFest – Saturday 17th – 18th October, 2015, 12PM-6PM

London’s Earl’s Court, ILEC Conference Centre
rumfest.co.uk

Boutique RumFest, the UK’s leading trade event for new and independent rums and Cachaças, is back for its sixth year after overwhelming support last year on October 16th 2015 at the ILEC in London.  Boasting a mixture of first-look access to some of the most exciting new brands on the market and unmissable talks covering a wide range of issues affecting the industry, Boutique RumFest is the place for industry figures to stay ahead of the curve.  Already confirmed to appear at Boutique RumFest are Ron Tiburon, Le Dom Tom, Japanese distiller, bottler and distributor Nine Leaves and more. For consumers, RumFest has also confirmed its biggest programme to-date, featuring tastings with over 400 rums from around the world, masterclasses, brand experiences, seminars, along with entertainment and mouth-watering cuisine. Registration for those interested in attending Boutique RumFest is open now and can be submitted online here. Tickets for RumFest are on sale and priced at £49.95, available from the RumFest website.

Founded by Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell and The Rum Experience, Boutique RumFest has gone from strength to strength each year thanks in part to the to the meteoric rise of the rum category and limited opportunities for young and independent brands to showcase their products to those that matter. The trade and press only event attracts wholesalers, distributors, buyers, bar professionals and importers from all over Europe to discover new and exciting rums from around the world. There will also be seminars on current topics such as the controversial levels of sugar that has recently been discovered in certain rums and whether brands should be made to disclose this information.

Already confirmed for this year’s Boutique RumFest is premium Belizian rum brand Ron Tiburon, Le Dom Tom, which launched only last year in France and Japanese distiller, bottler and distributor Nine Leaves. From Panama, Panamonte and Panama Red will be appearing along with Juan Santos from Columbia and Ron Esclavo from the Dominican Republic.

For rum-loving consumers, RumFest will be returning this year on the Saturday and Sunday after Boutique RumFest with extended opening times and a new VIP ticket option that allows for earlier entry, two course meal and special RumFest souvenirs. Now in its ninth year the world’s premier rum festival will showcase rums from around the world including over 400 of the rarest and most diverse available on the market. Following last year’s success the Golden Tot is back to give rum lovers the chance to try ultra-premium blends, some of which are not available to buy or drink anywhere else in the world. As well as exhibiting, brands will now have the opportunity to takeover intimate experience rooms to promote new releases and more to RumFest ticket holders. Sampling sessions will also allow small groups of discerning rum enthusiasts to sample handpicked rums from brands around the globe, guided by their representatives. Brands set to feature at RumFest this year include some old favourites and some exciting new additions, all to be announced soon. Better than ever RumFest is set to feature masterclasses, seminars, cocktail making and tastings for both rum newcomers and aficionados, along with the food, music and culture of one of the world’s best-loved spirits.

Speaking about the return, Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell said: “Last year the new ILEC venue provided the perfect setting for rum lovers to delve deeper into the world of rum and we’re excited to be heading back there this year with an even more exciting programme. Expect undiscovered new rums from around the world at Boutique RumFest as well as discussions on key issues affecting the industry, while at RumFest we’ll be taking rum lovers on the UK’s biggest celebration of rum with masterclasses, talks, amazing food and of course – rum!”

Ian Burrell is proud to be bringing The Rum Experience University to RumFest for the second year and the 2015 programme and tickets will be announced soon.

Registration for The Boutique RumFest is now open for members of trade/press and form submissions can be found HERE. Exhibitors looking to get involved in the event can apply by emailing emma@rumfest.co.uk.

The RumFest takes place in London at the ILEC, 17th to 18th October 2015. Standard day tickets are now on sale at £49.95, which includes access to all areas of the event and tastings from all of the exhibitors. VIP tickets are on sale from £75 and allow for an extra hour at the event along with a two course Caribbean lunch and RumFest goodie bag.

*End*

Some really exciting brands on display this year it seems. We at Rum Diaries Blog are massively keen to get to try a good selection including the much fabled Nine Leaves Rum having had our eye on it for a while! We also can’t wait to see which guest speakers and seminars will be announced so keep an eye on these pages for further updates as and when we get them…..Maybe we’ll even get to attend the Rum University this year! Hopefully we’ll get to see you there!

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2015. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Worlds Largest Rum Tasting

*Press Release*

GLOBAL RUM AMBASSADOR TO STAGE THE WORLD’S LARGEST RUM TASTING AS PRECURSOR TO EIGHTH ANNUAL RUMFEST

Very limited spaces available to the Guiness World Record attempt and tickets available now on a first come first serve basis

Thursday 9th October 2014,
London’s ILEC, Earl’s Court
Tickets at £10, now on sale from rumfest.co.uk

Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell is inviting rum fans to become official record breakers as he bids to take the title of ‘World’s Largest Rum Tasting’ at what is set to be the biggest rum tasting experience ever to be staged. Taking place on Thursday 9th October as a precursor to the eighth annual The RumFest, rum enthusiasts will be treated to a tasting experience at London’s ILEC Conference Centre, Earl’s Court where they will be able to sample and discover rums from six prestigious rum brands. These brands have been hand-picked by Burrell especially for the event and reflect the diversity of blends, taste and style on offer across the rum category and will be presented by some of the industry’s leading names. From Appleton’s Jamaican-style Rum presented by esteemed Master Blender Joy Spence, to a Rum which bring a bit of history to the evening with Pusser’s Navy Rum presented by Peter Thornton and George Freegard, to Trinidadian-style Angostura presented by Master Distiller John  Georges, this will be a unique and one-off evening for rum lovers. Officially adjudicated by a Guinness World Records representative and hosted by Ian Burrell, tickets are available to buy now for only £10 and tables of 10 can be pre-booked for groups, all available with more information on all four days of events from The RumFest website.

For the first time in history, RumFest invites guests to become part of a record-breaking attempt to host the world’s largest rum tasting, with hundreds of rum enthusiasts coming together to sample six esteemed rums from across the globe.

Representing Jamaica, Appleton’s Rum will be sipped and savoured with commentary from revered Master Blender, Joy Spence, whilst the Spanish style of rum, Don Q will be sipped and savoured with a yet to be announced speaker. For a historical twist Pusser’s Navy Rum will be presented by George Freegard and Peter Thornton. Angostura will bring a taste of Trinidad to the evening hosted by Master Distiller John Georges and the delights of Cuban’s classic Havana Club will be a part of the World Record Attempt with one final rum to be announced in the coming weeks.

Doors will open at 5pm where guests will be greeted with a welcome speech from Global Rum Ambassador and RumFest founder Ian Burrell, followed by an introduction to the rules and regulations of the Guinness World Records. From 6.30pm the world record attempt will begin as guests taste the six rums from some of the world’s most revered rum distilleries followed by an audience Q&A and the presentation of the Guinness World Records certificate.

Global Rum Ambassador and RumFest Founder Ian Burrell comments, “The possibility of hosting the World’s Largest Rum Tasting is incredibly exciting and we cannot wait to share the experience with so many rum lovers and it will be the perfect way to kick off what will be four days of superb rum celebrations. Rum is a spirit loved by many and to have the chance to taste six esteemed rums hosted by their top master blenders, ambassadors and distillers is an honour and a privilege. I cannot wait to share it with you all!”

The RumFest takes place in London at the ILEC on Friday 10th for press and trade and Saturday 11th to Sunday 12th October 2014 for trade and consumers. Standard tickets are now on sale at £49.95 for Saturday and Sunday, which include access to all areas of the the event and single measure tastings from the majority of exhibitors. The brand new Golden Tot Tokens are £5 each and allow for additional access to the more premium rums on offer. One token can be exchanged for rum retailing £80 – £100 and more expensive rums will be available for additional tokens. For full information please visit the RumFest website.

*End*

© Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog 2014. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, both written and photographic without the express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Steven James and Rum Diaries Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.